Nathan Chasing Horse, the former actor known for his role in the film Dances With Wolves, has been sentenced to life in prison for sexually assaulting Indigenous women and girls. The sentence was handed down by a Nevada judge on Monday, following a jury conviction on 13 charges, primarily related to sexual assault. Chasing Horse was accused by three women, including one who was just 14 years old when the abuse began. He was acquitted on some charges.
Victims Speak of Lasting Trauma
During the sentencing hearing, accusers and their families addressed Judge Jessica Peterson, describing the enduring trauma caused by Chasing Horse's actions. Many said they continue to struggle with their faith after he exploited his position as a spiritual leader. Chasing Horse, dressed in a navy blue Clark County detention center uniform, stared straight ahead as victims read their statements. He denied the allegations, telling the judge, "This is a miscarriage of justice."
Ongoing Legal Proceedings in Canada
The sentencing concludes a years-long effort to prosecute the former actor, who was first arrested and indicted in 2023. That arrest sent shockwaves through Indian Country, prompting law enforcement in other states and Canada to file additional charges, which remain pending. The British Columbia Prosecution Service confirmed that Chasing Horse was charged with sexual assault in February 2023 for an alleged offense in September 2018 near Keremeos, British Columbia. The case was paused during his U.S. proceedings but resumed in 2024. Once all U.S. appeals are exhausted, prosecutors will assess next steps. Additionally, a warrant remains outstanding in Alberta, according to the Tsuut'ina Nation police service.
Trial Focus on Spiritual Leader Role
Chasing Horse, born on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota, gained fame for his role as Smiles a Lot in Dances With Wolves. He later traveled across Indian Country, attending powwows and performing healing ceremonies. During his trial, Nevada prosecutors argued that he used his reputation as a Lakota medicine man to prey on Indigenous women and girls. Deputy District Attorney Bianca Pucci told the jury that for nearly 20 years, Chasing Horse "spun a web of abuse" that ensnared many women.
Victims' Testimonies
Three women testified that Chasing Horse sexually assaulted them, leading to guilty verdicts on related charges. One victim, Corena Leone-LaCroix, was 14 in 2012 when Chasing Horse allegedly told her the spirits wanted her to give up her virginity to save her mother, who had cancer. He then assaulted her, warning that her mother would die if she told anyone. The abuse continued for years. Chasing Horse denied the allegations, and his attorney questioned the credibility of the main accuser, calling her a "scorned woman." A motion for a new trial was denied.
Victims and their family members testified about their struggle with faith. One victim's mother said, "Even to this day I struggle to regain my faith and spirituality." Another victim described complications from an ectopic pregnancy resulting from the assault, requiring surgery. She stated, "I am choosing to see this moment as a fresh start. I will rebuild my life, reclaim my voice and continue fighting for the future I deserve."
Impact and Accountability
Dr. Crystal Lee, CEO of United Natives, which supports sexual abuse victims, expressed hope that the sentencing brings peace. She emphasized the importance of holding high-profile perpetrators accountable and believing victims. Lee noted that Chasing Horse used his status as an actor and medicine man to prey on victims, similar to other faith leaders who abuse their power. "I think it makes us question who we trust and why we trust," she said.
